Drew Gilbert certainly left a mark on SF Giants fans last season with his high-energy antics, both on the field and especially in the dugout. Now, new Giants outfielder Harrison Bader has a comical suggestion on how to manage the young dynamo.
When asked about the infamous photo of Giants third baseman Matt Chapman playfully "choking" Gilbert in the dugout last season, Bader admitted he had seen it. He jokingly agreed with Chapman's approach and suggested that the team might need a metal leash-like the ones used for catching alligators-to keep Gilbert in check.
It's a lighthearted idea, given Gilbert's wild tendencies. Last season, he was spotted chewing on Robbie Ray's hoodie like a playful pup, and Grant Brisbee captured it perfectly when he said, "It’s always, always fun to have a player who might take a bite out of a light bulb for no apparent reason."
Some might say Gilbert's infectious energy last year played a role in inspiring Buster Posey, the president of baseball operations, to bring in Tony Vitello, Gilbert's former manager at Tennessee. The team seemed to thrive on Gilbert's chaos, and it's no surprise he was thrilled about Vitello's hiring.
Bader himself is full of energy and could be the perfect mentor for Gilbert. Both are known for their defensive prowess and relentless hustle. Bader might just be the guiding force Gilbert needs to become a solid big-league player.
However, Gilbert's spot on the Opening Day roster isn't guaranteed. He faces stiff competition from players like Luis Matos, Jerar Encarnacion, and Will Brennan. With Matos and Encarnacion out of minor league options, the competition could be tight, potentially giving them an edge.
Playing under Vitello at Tennessee doesn't automatically secure Gilbert a spot. He needs to deliver this spring to make the team, though fans would certainly enjoy seeing his wild antics in the dugout, reminiscent of his college days.
And if things get a bit too wild, Bader might just have that metal alligator leash ready, giving Chapman a well-deserved break.